North Dakota 2023-2024 Regular Session

North Dakota Senate Bill SB2371

Introduced

1/23/23

Refer

1/23/23

Report Pass

2/14/23

Engrossed

2/17/23

Refer

2/21/23

Report Pass

4/13/23

Enrolled

4/27/23

Passed

4/29/23

Caption

The prohibition on ownership of real property by a foreign adversary; to provide for a legislative management study; and to provide an expiration date.

Impact

This bill significantly amends the North Dakota Century Code, particularly regarding ownership of property by foreign adversaries. By stipulating that such ownership and associated development approvals are generally forbidden, it aims to enhance state security and protect local interests. The legislation is designed to prevent foreign influence in critical state areas, especially as geopolitical tensions continue to prompt concerns about national security. It outlines penalties and processes for enforcement, ensuring compliance amongst foreign entities operating within the state.

Summary

Senate Bill 2371 prohibits foreign adversaries from owning real property in North Dakota and empowers local county and city governments to restrict development agreements with such entities. The bill introduces specific conditions under which a foreign adversary may be allowed to maintain an interest in real estate, mostly tied to business registration duration and federal approval. Furthermore, it establishes a legislative management study to evaluate the implications of foreign ownership and develop a framework for monitoring foreign adversaries operating in the state.

Sentiment

The reception of SB 2371 has been mostly favorable among lawmakers, with overwhelming support seen during the voting sessions, indicating a bipartisan consensus on the necessity to safeguard state interests from foreign influences. However, discussions around the bill have also revealed concerns regarding its potential implications on economic development and the ability of foreign-owned businesses with longstanding histories in the state to operate without undue disruption.

Contention

Notable contention arises regarding the criteria for permitting foreign ownership under certain circumstances. Critics have raised questions about the implications of defining 'foreign adversary' and the consequences for legitimate businesses that may be affected. Additionally, the bill encompasses provisions for a study to recommend future legislation regarding foreign ownership, promoting ongoing discussion about how best to balance security with economic development needs.

Latest SB2371 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ND SB2361

Ownership of land and development projects by a foreign adversary; and to provide for a legislative management report.

ND HB1503

Ownership of real property and commercial assets by foreign adversaries; to provide for a legislative management study; and to provide an expiration date.

ND SB2337

Required filings for foreign persons investing in agricultural lands; to provide for a legislative management report; to provide a penalty; to provide a contingent effective date; and to provide an expiration date.

ND HB1208

The powers of a board of county commissioners, a board of city commissioners, and a city council regarding development by a foreign country of concern or foreign organization of concern, prohibiting ownership of real property by a foreign country of concern or a foreign organization of concern; and to provide a penalty.

ND SB2314

The investigation of and penalty for approving a development agreement in the state for a foreign adversary; and to provide a penalty.

ND SB2026

Required filings for foreign persons investing in agricultural lands; to provide a penalty; and to provide a contingent effective date.

ND HB0224

Prohibiting foreign adversary property ownership.

ND SB727

Foreign ownership of land; prohibiting foreign adversary company ownership of land in this state. Effective date.

ND HB1176

Legacy fund definitions and the legacy earnings fund; to provide for a legislative management study; to provide for a legislative management report; to provide an appropriation; to provide an exemption; to provide an effective date; to provide an expiration date; and to declare an emergency.

ND HB1168

Legacy fund definitions and the legacy earnings fund; to provide a statement of legislative intent; to provide for a legislative management study, to provide an appropriation; to provide an effective date; to provide an expiration date; and to declare an emergency.